Children and Young Persons Bill [HL]

I, too, very much welcome the sentiments which the noble Earl, Lord Listowel, has highlighted in his amendment. However, I agree with previous speakers that it may not be appropriate to put it in legislation. It may perhaps be more appropriate in guidance, but I do not agree with the noble Baroness, Lady Howarth, that it would be inappropriate to put it in a contract. I say that because I draw a parallel between the newly qualified social worker and the newly qualified teacher. I recall, when I was a newly qualified teacher, feeling rather like a learner driver, not having quite enough hands and feet to control the car and being extremely grateful that I had only a half timetable. The reduced workload and increased supervision given to me as a newly qualified teacher is also appropriate for newly qualified social workers, particularly in the light of cases like that of Victoria Climbié. So it must be laid down somewhere, but I agree that the Bill is perhaps not the appropriate place. However, I absolutely agree with the sentiments expressed by the noble Earl.